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How to Find a Physician's DEA Number: Official DEA Verification Steps

Verifying a Prescriber's Controlled Substance Registration

The DEA number is required for any practitioner prescribing controlled substances (Schedules II–V). It can be verified publicly via the DEA's online database.

Step-by-Step Search Process

  1. Go to: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov (DEA Diversion Control Division).
  2. Click "DEA Public Information" tab (top menu).
  3. Select "Search DEA Registrants" under "Registrant Lookup".
  4. Enter search criteria:
    • Registrant Name (Last, First — partial OK)
    • Business Name (practice/clinic)
    • City, State, ZIP
    • DEA Number (if known: 2 letters + 7 digits, e.g., AB1234567)
  5. Click "Search".
  6. Results display: Name, DEA Number, Business Address, Schedule Authorizations (II–V), Expiration Date, Registration Status (Active/Expired/Revoked).

DEA Number Format

  • First letter: Registrant type (A/B/F/G/H/J/K/M/P/R/S/T/U — e.g., B=Hospital/Clinic, F=Practitioner, M=Mid-level)
  • Second letter: First letter of last name.
  • 7 digits: Unique identifier + check digit (algorithm validates).

Alternative Verification Methods

  • State Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP): Prescribers' DEA numbers visible to authorized users.
  • Pharmacy Verification: Pharmacists confirm via DEA CSOS or state system at dispensing.
  • NPI Registry (NPPES): Does not include DEA number, but confirms NPI.

Common Uses

  • Pharmacies validating prescriber authority.
  • Patients verifying provider legitimacy.
  • Employers credentialing new hires.
  • Researchers analyzing prescribing patterns.

Note: DEA registration does not imply clinical competence or absence of disciplinary action. Check state medical board for license status.

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